5. Can Chinese nationality be lost or renounced?

According to article 9 of the Nationality Law of the PRC , a Chinese citizen who emigrates abroad and acquires foreign citizenship ceases to be a Chinese national, and is no longer able to transmit Chinese nationality to his or her children. In addition, article 10 of the Nationality Law states that Chinese nationals may apply to renounce their Chinese nationality.

For Hong Kong Chinese persons, the situation as detailed by "the explanations" made by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC) is different. Such persons are still considered to be Chinese citizens even after acquiring foreign nationality unless they apply to the Immigration Department under article 5 of "the explanations" to be recognised as foreign citizens. Details of the application process can be found on the website of the Immigration Department at www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/chnnationality_5.htm.